Lara Stone on Cornwall

‘I grew up in Mierlo in the Netherlands, but I’ve lived in the UK for about 10 years now. I have a home in a very quiet, villagey part of London, but nothing beats the British countryside. A long walk around Cornwall is always a great way to spend a day – especially when it ends with a trip to a lovely, traditional pub. My go-to is the old, thatched Pandora Inn, which sits on a creek in Falmouth.'

'It was built in the 13th century and is rumoured to have been a popular haunt of pirates. The town is full of history. Pendennis Castle is an old Tudor fortress on its own peninsula. When we visited, there was a medieval fair with real jousting! Another extraordinary place is the Eden Project – referred to by locals as the eighth wonder of the world. The giant greenhouse is an incredible spot to take the children on days when the weather ruins other plans. In terms of food, you can’t beat a Cornish pasty – it’s my absolute favourite. The best is sold at the family-run Malcolm Barnecutt Bakery Rock in Wadebridge. Newquay is also really special. We recently rented a charming house here called The Island. It’s on its own little spit of rock above Towan Beach, and is only accessible via a suspension bridge. It even has its own pirate flag that you can fly from a flagpole. What I love the most about Britain is that you can be in the hustle and bustle one moment, and then in peaceful wilderness the next. There’s something for everyone.’

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